Introduction
Barbed Wire has been an integral and important part of the history of the west. It has provided many functions, which include physical barriers, historical information, and artistic interests. Over the years, wire has evolved from a single type to a wide variety of patents and variations.

Barriers
Barbed wire was originally developed to allow farmers and ranchers an opportunity to divide their ranges into smaller pastures for controlled grazing and protecting their crops. As plots of land were fenced and barriers, created free range for grazing and cattle drives became extinct. Barriers were also created during wars with entanglement wire in attempt to stop the enemy. As recently as the Viet Nam war, new wires were being manufactured to assist in the soldiers' defense. Today this same type of wire is used on prisons and businesses to prevent individuals from exiting institutions or entering non-public areas. This type of wire was used to divide nations after World War II.

History
Beyond the changes in the western land development, wire has also provided an opportunity to research patent information. This information leads an individual to develop a geographical sense of where wire was first produced and the number of wires that have been manufactured over the years. Different types of wire were adaptable for unique locations and often patentees used a new style of wire as their "signature." Collecting wire introduces many challenges and opportunities to learn more about the industry of barbed wire.

Art Form
Many wires are quite unique in purpose and style. There are barbs that resemble spurs, stars with different numbers of points, flat plates with corners bent, and a variety of others. Barbed wire has been used in a variety of sculptures and designs. There are large wire balls, longhorn cattle, and cacti, which are more solid, stand-alone creations. There are also many shapes of states, boots, wire plaques and symbols made from barbed wire that are available for decorative purposes. Jewelry is yet another very creative use of wire.

Conclusion
Learning about barbed wire allows you to study the transition of our country and the world through a variety of changes. The opportunity to study barbed wire in depth creates an awareness of its uses and the availability of the unique kinds of wires. Being an involved collector provides additional access to many knowledgeable individuals, which with their special expertise, will add to your information bank.